Manchester United are the frontrunners to sign Elche centre-back David Affengruber ahead of Juventus this summer, according to Tuttojuve.
The Red Devils recently confirmed a back surgery for Matthijs de Ligt, and the Dutchman is expected to be ruled out for the start of the 2026/27 season.
United may be extremely cautious with De Ligt, who has been sidelined since November last year, and he may not return to the starting XI until he is fully fit.
With the club back in the Champions League next season, they may require an extra centre-back. We have already covered an opinion on Elche’s Affengruber.
Tuttojuve today claim that United are ‘most interested’ in signing Affengruber and could have an edge over Juventus in the pursuit of the 25-year-old.
Elche have placed a price tag of £26 million for the Austrian star, but the Bianconeri are reluctant to pay more than £17 million for his signature.
United handed boost in Affengruber’s pursuit
Affengruber has had a fine season with Elche, who are just above the La Liga drop zone.
The former Sturm Graz man has completed an impressive 88 percent of his passes. He has also won five duels per game alongside five clearances, five recoveries and two tackles.
Affengruber has a strong physical and aerial presence suited to the Premier League. United have a clear edge over the Bianconeri, who may not afford the centre-back this summer.
Juventus are currently sixth in Serie A, two points behind AC Milan and Roma, who are third and fourth. With just one game left, they could miss out on Champions League football.
This could limit their transfer budget this summer as they seek to offset financial losses. Hence, United have an upper hand and still need to be proactive to secure his services.
United could be willing to meet the £26m price tag with add-ons, but should seek to seal a deal before the World Cup, given that Affengruber has made the Austrian squad.
A strong showing at the global tournament could invite offers from other elite European clubs.
Stats from Transfermarkt & Sofascore
